Parents' decision-making process in medication administration for control of hyperactivity

Area of Science:

• Child Psychology
• Pediatric Pharmacology
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Parental decision-making regarding medication for hyperactive children is complex.
• Ambivalence is common when considering stimulant medication for ADHD.
• Supportive interventions can aid parents in this critical decision-making process.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate an intervention strategy aimed at reducing parental ambivalence.
• To assess the impact of counseling versus a control conference on parental deliberation.
• To explore the influence of the intervention provider (school nurse) on parental attitudes.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study design was employed.
• Participants included parents of hyperactive children considering stimulant medication.
• Data were collected and analyzed to compare intervention effectiveness.

Main Results:

• A counseling intervention significantly increased parental awareness of decision importance compared to a control conference.
• Parents reported positive attitudes toward the intervention.
• Intervention delivered by a school nurse led to more positive parental attitudes toward medication decisions.

Conclusions:

• Counseling interventions are effective in supporting parental decision-making for hyperactive children's medication.
• The role of school nurses is crucial in facilitating positive parental attitudes and informed choices.
• School-based healthcare professionals play a vital role in managing pediatric behavioral health decisions.